The Importance of a Proper Oral Hygiene Routine

The Importance of a Proper Oral Hygiene Routine

What your dentists in Woodstock, Marietta, and Kennesaw want you to knoworal hygiene

You may be brushing and flossing out of habits learned long ago when you were growing up. It’s important to follow good oral hygiene habits, but it’s also important to know WHY you are taking care of yourself. Why do you have a proper oral hygiene routine? Your dentists at 1st Choice Dental Care want to help answer that question. They have several convenient office locations in Woodstock, Marietta, and Kennesaw, GA to serve your dental needs.

You need to follow a proper oral hygiene routine to remove plaque and food debris from your mouth. Plaque contains millions of microscopic bacteria that produce toxins. These toxins can destroy both the soft tissues (your gums) and the hard tissues (your teeth) in your mouth. By removing the plaque regularly and thoroughly, you prevent the production of destructive toxins.

If you don’t remove the plaque, eventually your gums will become inflamed and diseased, which can eventually lead to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease causes bone loss around your teeth, which can lead to tooth loss.

The acids in plaque can also cause tooth decay, which can progress deep down into the inner tissues of your tooth. Once it reaches the inner tissue, called the pulp, you will need a root canal, and you may even need the tooth extracted if it is too badly damaged to be restored. Then you are looking at expensive tooth replacement with partials, bridges, or dental implants.

All of this can be avoided by following a proper oral hygiene routine, which should include:

  • Brushing after meals and before bed
  • Flossing at least once each day
  • Professional dental cleanings every six months
  • Professional dental exams including x-rays once each year

It’s important to take good care of your mouth, because a healthy mouth protects your general health too. For more information about oral hygiene and other dental topics, services and treatments, call your dentists at 1st Choice Dental Care, with offices in Woodstock, Marietta, and Kennesaw, GA. Call today!